THE Department of Health – Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) on Wednesday simultaneously launched the measles, rubella, tetanus, and diphtheria (MR-TD) vaccine supplemental immunization activity (MR-TD) in the region.

DOH Regional Director Eduardo Janairo said targets of the event are children from 9 to 59 months old for the measles-rubella vaccine and tetanus,diphtheria vaccine for aged 0-23 months.

“We must seek out these under five children and give them the protection they need. That is why we are closely working with the local government units to ensure that that no child will be left unvaccinated,” Janairo said.

“Kailangang hanapin at mabakunahan ang mga batang hindi pa nabakunahan or ‘yung may mga incomplete doses at kumpletuhim amg kanilang bakuna para sila ay maproteksyonan laban sa measles, tetanus at diptheria. Lahat ng ito ay pwedeng labanan sa pamamagitan ng tamang bakuna. Safe po at epektibo ang mga bakuna natin, kaya wala po tayong dapat ikatakot dito,” he said.

Janairo encouraged mothers and caregivers to bring their infants and children 5 years and below to their nearest health centers or designated vaccination posts for the free vaccines.

“Hindi natin dapat ipagwalang-bahala ang kalusugan ng mga bata kaya kahit tayo ay nasa pandemya, kailangang pa ring maihatid at maibigay ang mga serbisyong pangkalusugan na kinakailangan ng ating mga kababayan,” the health official said.

The simultaneous MR-TD immunization activities were held in Tayabas, Quezon, Lipa, Batangas, Bacoor, Cavite, Sta. Rosa. Laguna and Rodriguez, Rizal.

Community safety protocols against Covid-19 were observed during the activities.

The MR-TD vaccination will end on December 22.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Jane Eleda